In 2009/10 the council reduced the workforce by 10% while claiming that “productivity in most areas was maintained or improved”, but admit that in “a small number of cases this has resulted in a reduction in service.

Over the budget period (until 2015/16) this will affect 18 posts, 6 of which are vacant. They will include changes in the Regeneration team, sharing administrative support and reducing the Human Resources team.

Savings: £132,000 in 2012/13, rising to £324,00 in 2013/14 and £364,000 thereafter

Shared services

The council is looking at shared services with other organisations, including Revenues and Benefits services with Lancaster council, and Chorley/South Ribble.

Savings: £35,000 in 2012/13, £115,000 in 2013/14 ongoing

Procurement

Savings made by re-tending the existing contracts concerning insurance and mobile phones.

Savings: £45,000 in 2012/13 ongoing

Post-Guild Restructure

The council has additional staff and resources for the Preston Guild this year, so savings are being made by reorganising various senior management teams

Savings: £240,000 in 2013/14 ongoing

Mayoralty

Preston Council’s proposal is to scale down the support in the Mayor’s office after the Guild. The council propose a full review of Mayoral activities and functions, including hospitality arrangements and the Mayoral car. There are plans to consult with staff, former Mayors and the public.

Savings: £30,000 in 2013/14 ongoing

Bus shelter cleaning

The council have proposed to reduce the frequency of bus shelter cleaning. Currently they’re cleaned 6 times a year, this will be reduced to twice a year.

Savings: £10,000 in 2012/13 ongoing

What do you think of the council’s spending proposals?

Do you think the money has been invested wisely, or should it be distributed elsewhere?

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